Activities of Rector Idzi Radziszewski in St. Petersburg

Abstract

Idzi Radziszewski’s activity in St. Petersburg during his fouryear term as rector of the Spiritual Academy was multilateral. The Rector became involved in pastoral activities, conducting retreats and preaching
in St. Petersburg parishes. He was also active in charitable and aid organizations. The main sphere of activity was the education of the clergy and lay youth. Radziszewski, shortly after his arrival in the Russian capital, developed a project to reform the Spiritual Academy, emphasizing the improvement of the level of studies and specializations. In the situation of constant ministerial supervision, the reform was limited in scope, hence not all projects were implemented by the Rector. The establishment of the Higher Polish Courses gave the rector a new impulse to create a university whose graduates will build an independent state on Christian foundations. Recognizing the need for the formation of both priests and laity, Fr. Radziszewski was also involved in the work of the Social Council at the Ordinariate of the Mogilev Archdiocese. The preserved documentation of this activity allows us to outline the unchanging attitude of Fr. Radziszewski – action towards the common good.